Lombard Weed Control Services

Our Weed Control Process

Contact Lombard's Department of Public Works for Weed Debris Disposal & Organic Waste Management

Proper disposal of yard waste and weed debris is essential for maintaining public health and environmental quality in Lombard. The village operates a seasonal yard waste collection program requiring residents to use biodegradable paper bags—plastic bags are strictly prohibited. Brush must be bundled in 4-foot lengths, weighing no more than 50 pounds per bundle, and placed curbside on designated collection days. Composting facilities and transfer sites are available with specific operating hours, and some services may require permits or fees. Invasive plant materials such as buckthorn, bush honeysuckle, garlic mustard, and Japanese honeysuckle must be bagged and sent to landfill, not composted, to prevent spread. Herbicide-treated debris requires special handling and coordination with the health department. Chemical containers must be triple-rinsed, documented, and disposed of at hazardous waste events, never in regular trash or recycling. Disposing of plant debris in streets, gutters, or storm drains is strictly prohibited to protect water quality and comply with MS4 regulations.

Lombard Department of Public Works
255 E. Wilson Ave., Lombard, IL 60148
Phone: (630) 620-5740
Official Website: Lombard Public Works Department

Understanding Common Weeds & IPM Strategies for Lombard's Prairie Till Plains

Lombard's location on the Prairie Till Plains means soils are predominantly clay-rich with moderate to high organic matter and a pH of 6.0-7.5, influencing weed pressure and management. Common broadleaf weeds include dandelion, plantain, white clover, ground ivy, and creeping Charlie. Grassy weeds such as crabgrass, foxtail, goosegrass, and quackgrass are prevalent, while perennial weeds like violets, wild garlic, and wild onion persist in lawns. Invasive species such as garlic mustard, buckthorn seedlings, and tree of heaven require targeted management. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies include:

• Cultural controls: mow at 3-4 inches, fertilize based on soil tests, core aerate to reduce compaction, overseed with competitive grasses, and manage irrigation
• Mechanical controls: hand-weeding, cultivation, mulching (2-4 inches), landscape fabric, and flame weeding
• Biological controls: encourage beneficial insects, use competitive plantings, and apply corn gluten meal as a pre-emergent
• Chemical controls: use as a last resort, apply minimum effective rates, and prioritize spot treatments

Soil compaction and drainage issues in clay soils require integrating cultural controls and organic matter addition. Prevention includes improving soil health, proper fertilization, and consulting University of Illinois Extension for diagnostics.

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Requirements for Weed Control & Water Quality Protection

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforces strict requirements to protect water quality during weed control operations. Applicators must coordinate with watershed protection programs and maintain buffer zones of 25-100 feet near streams, rivers, and wetlands to prevent pesticide runoff and drift. Compliance with the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy is mandatory. Environmental protection measures include using low-drift nozzles, scheduling applications to avoid pollinator activity (especially during bloom periods), and following groundwater protection protocols near municipal wells. Erosion control is vital—minimize soil disturbance, revegetate bare spots promptly, and install sediment barriers as needed. Permit coordination with local departments is required for chemical applications near sensitive areas, and all treatment plans must be documented and, when necessary, include environmental impact assessments. For more information, consult the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Illinois Pesticide Regulations & Professional Licensing Requirements for Lombard

All commercial weed control applicators in Lombard must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, typically under Category 3A (Turf & Landscape). Certification requires passing an exam and completing continuing education units (10 hours per 3-year cycle). Federal EPA registration and compliance are required for all products, with restricted use pesticides (RUPs) subject to strict handling and storage protocols. Applicators must maintain commercial general liability insurance (minimum $1 million), environmental impairment coverage, and bonding for municipal contracts. Detailed application logs, adverse incident reports, and customer notifications are mandatory. Coordination with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5 ensures federal compliance. For licensing and regulatory details, contact the Illinois Department of Agriculture.

Lombard Health Department Guidelines for Pesticide Application & Public Safety Protection

The Lombard Health Department oversees public health protection during pesticide applications. Commercial applicators must provide public notification 24-48 hours in advance, using approved signage. Setbacks from property lines, wells, water bodies, and sensitive sites (schools, healthcare facilities, daycares) are typically 100-150 feet. Re-entry intervals range from 6-48 hours, depending on the product. Special restrictions apply in organic farming and food production zones. Safety protocols include protecting children, pets, and sensitive individuals, establishing emergency contact procedures, and coordinating with local emergency services for chemical exposure incidents. Personal protective equipment (PPE), equipment calibration, spill prevention, and drift control are required. Post-application monitoring includes effectiveness evaluation and environmental impact assessment.

Lombard Health Department
111 E. Maple St., Lombard, IL 60148
Phone: (630) 620-5700
Official Website: DuPage County Health Department

Seasonal Weed Control Calendar & Weather Timing for Lombard's Climate Zone 5b

Lombard is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, with a climate that requires careful timing of weed control activities. Early spring (soil temperatures 50-55°F, late March to early April) is ideal for pre-emergent crabgrass control. Late spring (May-June) targets broadleaf weeds during active growth. Summer (July-August) focuses on spot treatments and nutsedge management, while fall (September-October) is best for perennial weed control and pre-emergent applications for winter annuals. Weather coordination is essential—avoid applications before rainfall (24-48 hour window), apply when wind speeds are below 10 mph (liquid) or 15 mph (granular), and target temperatures between 60-85°F. Microclimate factors such as urban heat islands, elevation, and proximity to water bodies affect timing. Seasonal restrictions protect wildlife and pollinators, especially during bloom periods. For up-to-date forecasts, consult the National Weather Service Chicago.

Stormwater Management & MS4 Compliance During Weed Control Operations in Lombard

Lombard operates under a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit as required by the Clean Water Act and EPA NPDES program. Best management practices include preventing chemical runoff into storm drains, protecting local rivers and streams, and integrating with the Illinois Urban Manual. Mixing and loading of chemicals must occur at least 100 feet from storm drains and water bodies, with secondary containment for storage and handling. Immediate spill response, proper equipment wash water management, and long-term reduction of chemical loads are required to protect aquatic ecosystems. Enforcement includes reporting, inspections, and timely correction of violations, coordinated with state and federal agencies.

Lombard Water Department
255 E. Wilson Ave., Lombard, IL 60148
Phone: (630) 620-5740
Official Website: Lombard Water Services

Safe Handling, Storage & Disposal of Weed Control Products Under Illinois Regulations

Safe storage and handling of weed control products are mandated by Illinois regulations. Chemicals must be stored in locked, ventilated areas at least 100 feet from wells and water supplies, with temperature control (40-90°F) and inventory rotation (FIFO). PPE selection is based on product labels and safety data sheets. Mixing and loading should occur in dedicated areas to prevent spills, and equipment must be decontaminated between uses. All containers must be properly labeled. Disposal requires triple-rinsing empty containers, documenting procedures, and using hazardous waste collection events for leftover chemicals. Prohibited disposal methods include pouring into drains, soil, or trash. Emergency response protocols include first aid, spill containment, and contacting poison control (1-800-222-1222). For hazardous waste coordination, consult the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Lombard, IL?

Lombard's neighborhoods each present unique weed management challenges due to variations in soil, environment, and community standards:

• Downtown Lombard: Dense clay soils, high foot traffic, and proximity to Lilacia Park require enhanced safety protocols and buffer zones. Regulatory sensitivities include public event schedules and parkland protection.
• Butterfield East: Predominantly residential with loam-clay soils, moderate drainage, and homeowner association standards. Salt exposure from winter de-icing affects plant communities and chemical tolerance.
• Hammerschmidt Area: School zones and playgrounds necessitate strict notification, enhanced setbacks, and pollinator protection. Seasonal occupancy patterns influence treatment timing.
• Glenbard East Vicinity: Proximity to wetlands and water supply protection areas requires special permits, buffer zones, and reduced chemical use. Invasive species concentrations are higher near natural areas.
• Yorktown Business District: Commercial properties with compacted soils, high aesthetic standards, and strict equipment operation hours. Previous herbicide resistance issues require integrated management.
• North Lombard: Residential with sandy-loam soils, variable drainage, and community sustainability preferences. Integration with existing landscape practices is essential.
• South Lombard: Mix of residential and light industrial, with regulatory sensitivities near water bodies and organic farming areas. Enhanced drift prevention and environmental compliance are required.

Lombard Municipal Ordinances for Equipment Operation & Commercial Applicator Standards

Lombard enforces municipal ordinances to ensure safe and compliant weed control operations. Equipment operation is permitted from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekends, with noise restrictions and residential limitations during sensitive hours. Commercial applicators must obtain a business license, register with the municipality, and maintain insurance (minimum $1 million liability, workers compensation, environmental impairment). Bonding is required for municipal contracts, and Illinois Department of Agriculture certification must be verified. Safety protocols include traffic control, equipment calibration, public notification, and right-of-way permits. Environmental compliance mandates proper material handling, vehicle maintenance, immediate cleanup, and documentation. Coordination with the Lombard Community Development and Building Department ensures adherence to local standards.

Lombard Community Development and Building Department
255 E. Wilson Ave., Lombard, IL 60148
Phone: (630) 620-5749
Official Website: Lombard Community Development and Building Department

By following these comprehensive guidelines, Lombard residents and professionals can achieve effective, sustainable weed control while protecting public health, complying with all regulations, and preserving the community's environmental resources.